Published Wednesday, 21 November, 2007 at 09:34 AM
Minister for Communities, Disability Services, ATSIP, Multicultural Affairs, Seniors and Youth
The Honourable Lindy Nelson-Carr
$95,000 for Palm Island cell visitor services: Minister
Minister for Communities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Lindy Nelson-Carr has announced more than $95,000 in funding to support the Palm Island Men’s Business Group Cell Visitor Service into 2008.
The Palm Island Men’s Business Group coordinates the service which helps ensure the well-being of people in custody.
“Service staff work closely with police, the Palm Island watch house, community members and local services to support Indigenous people in custody and help reduce the incidence of suicide, self-injury and health problems related to intoxication,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.
“Through the cell visitor service, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in custody receive support from a cell visitor at key times of the day and night.
“Cell visitors often provide that important link between detainees and their family members, friends and work contacts, helping to look after the well-being of both the person in custody and those near to them.
“Cell visitors also provide invaluable support to police, helping them in the hard job they have to do.”
In 2006-07, the Cell Visitor Service on Palm Island supported 63 clients, including 50 men and 13 women.
Media contacts: Minister Nelson-Carr’s office 3235 4280, Harry Landman 0407 637 510
The Palm Island Men’s Business Group coordinates the service which helps ensure the well-being of people in custody.
“Service staff work closely with police, the Palm Island watch house, community members and local services to support Indigenous people in custody and help reduce the incidence of suicide, self-injury and health problems related to intoxication,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.
“Through the cell visitor service, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in custody receive support from a cell visitor at key times of the day and night.
“Cell visitors often provide that important link between detainees and their family members, friends and work contacts, helping to look after the well-being of both the person in custody and those near to them.
“Cell visitors also provide invaluable support to police, helping them in the hard job they have to do.”
In 2006-07, the Cell Visitor Service on Palm Island supported 63 clients, including 50 men and 13 women.
Media contacts: Minister Nelson-Carr’s office 3235 4280, Harry Landman 0407 637 510